Google kills Chromecast with $99 set-top box to rival Apple TV

Google has discontinued Chromecast and announced the Google TV Streamer as its replacement. The new set-top box will cost you $99 but offers Apple TV-like value.

Chromecast was a handy little device that lets you plug it into your TV and cast stuff from your phone. However, with TVs getting smarter and doing that on their own, Google decided to stop making it.

Chromecast has now been replaced by the Google TV Streamer, a 4K set-top box that’s twice as expensive.

The new set-top box has a pill-shaped design and is available in Porcelain, while the US Google Store is offering an exclusive Hazel model. You’ll find HDMI 2.1, Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps), and USB-C ports on the device, though the USB port is intended for power.

The Google TV Streamer is powered by a chip with a 22% faster CPU, 4 GB of RAM (double the 2020 model), and 32 GB of storage (a 4x increase).

While this may still not be enough to compete with the Nvidia Shield TV and Apple TV 4K, it’s a solid improvement. It also supports Spatial Audio when you pair Pixel Buds Pro.

Supported video formats include Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, while audio formats include Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos. It features Bluetooth 5.1, and Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz).

The device also functions as a smart home hub, part of Google’s effort to reinvigorate interest in the Nest line. It will let you more directly control both Google Home and Matter-compatible devices.

Imagine it as a larger-screen Nest Display or Pixel Tablet. This added functionality necessitates an extra radio, resulting in a larger overall design.

The Google TV Streamer will be available for purchase starting September 24. It’s coming to the US, but availability in other regions is currently unclear.